Former Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by the Metropolitan Police Service, according to a statement released on Thursday.
The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2021 and 2022, and involve three different women.
The 32-year-old Ghana international, who left Arsenal as a free agent earlier this week, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5 to face the charges.
Charges Detailed
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police clarified:
“The offenses relate to two counts of rape of one woman, three counts of rape of a second woman, and one count of sexual assault of a third woman.”
The police force, which serves the 32 boroughs of Greater London, also revealed that the investigation was first launched in February 2022, after they received an initial report of rape.
Thomas Partey Denies All Charges
Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, issued a statement to Britain’s Press Association, insisting on her client’s innocence:
“He denies all the charges against him,” she said.
“He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
CPS Confirms Charges Filed
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) also issued a formal update on Thursday, confirming that they had authorised the prosecution of the former Premier League star.
“The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised the prosecution of Thomas Partey for multiple counts of rape — after carefully reviewing a comprehensive file of evidence,” said Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London North.
“Our prosecutors have worked closely with officers in the Metropolitan Police, who have carried out the investigation, to review the evidence and advise on the appropriate charges.”
Narwal also reminded the public about the importance of due process:
“We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial.”
“We know there will be significant public interest in this announcement, but it is absolutely vital that there is no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Police Appeal for Further Information
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, whose team is leading the investigation, also spoke on the matter, reiterating the force’s commitment to supporting the alleged victims:
“Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” Furphy said in an official statement.
“We would ask anyone who has been impacted by this case, or anyone who has information, to speak with our team. You can contact detectives about this investigation.”
Arsenal Yet to Comment
Though ESPN has approached Arsenal for comment, the North London club has yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations or charges brought against their former player.
Partey signed with Arsenal in 2020 for a reported £45 million (approx. $61.42 million) transfer from Atlético Madrid, and spent five seasons at the Emirates Stadium.
Career Before Charges
Last season, Partey made 35 Premier League appearances, scoring four goals as Arsenal finished second in the league.
He also featured 12 times in the Champions League, playing a key role in the team’s journey to the semifinals, where they were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain.
With his contract expiring this week, Partey became a free agent, and reports had linked him with interest from clubs in Italy, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey prior to Thursday’s announcement.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
As proceedings now officially commence, the case is expected to attract global attention given Partey’s profile and the gravity of the charges.
Up next is when Thomas Partey will appear to face the charges in person on Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5.
In line with legal protocols, no further public details are expected until that date, and authorities have warned against any form of speculation that may affect the integrity of the judicial process.
